Revalorizing the prices of agricultural products is seen as a key step toward ensuring the sustainability of French farming, according to Anne-Marie DENIS, president of the FRSEA in Normandy. She discussed the CASi plan, a government initiative designed to support farms most affected by the recent drought. Normally, this time of year marks the maize silage period, a crucial step in preparing feed for livestock. However, due to current weather conditions, silage machines have been put away, disrupting this process. Although rains at the end of August eased some concerns, September remained dry, making it difficult to harvest autumn grass, especially in areas using hidden cultivation methods. As a result, many farmers will enter the winter with limited stock, increasing their vulnerability to further challenges.
Normandy has received 11 million euros under the CASi plan, with a quarter of this amount set aside for future use. The regional prefect distributed the remaining funds among the departments, with efforts made to redirect 800,000 euros from the reserved portion to support low-potential sectors in Eure and Orne. Each department has established its own criteria based on local conditions. Farmers can now apply for assistance, with flat rates ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 euros depending on the department. However, these funds are expected to cover only 15 to 20 percent of the affected farms, leaving many without sufficient support.
Additional measures have been introduced to ease the burden on farmers. These include exemptions from the tax on unbuilt land, which must be returned to the farmer. Landowners also benefit from a one-month delay in paying taxes, giving the administration time to adjust tax notices. Farmers are encouraged to negotiate with tenant farmers on rent deadlines or payment schedules. Biogas plants are also being recognized for their role in prioritizing the supply of forage to livestock during the crisis.
Despite these measures, rising costs continue to challenge farmers, prompting calls for an extension of aid at 15 cents per liter of GNR, a type of agricultural fuel. While farmers are encouraged to apply for this aid, few do so. Some have urged the government to increase the rate to 30 cents per liter due to the sharp rise in prices. Coverage has also been obtained for the increased cost of nitrogen fertilizers, and farmers are invited to apply for this support as well.
While these temporary measures can help address current difficulties, the most effective long-term solution remains the revaluation of agricultural product prices, such as cereals, milk, beef, pork, and poultry. Distributors and manufacturers are being urged to recognize that revaluing these prices is essential for the sustainability of French farming that meets consumer expectations. Food sovereignty is a key concern, and now is the time to align actions with intentions to ensure the future of the agricultural sector.
French Farmers Seek Price Revaluation Amid Drought and Rising Costs
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